When most students sit down for lunch on the afternoon of February 18, Muslim students observing Ramadan will have begun fasting. Their days start before sunrise and include fasting until sunset without food or water. For many, it is a month of reflection, discipline, and community balanced with typical classes, jobs, and responsibilities.
Ramadan is the ninth month of the Islamic lunar calendar. Healthy Muslims fast while the sun is out. Many spend time with family, read the Qur’an, participate in late-night prayers called Tarawih, and practice patience and awareness for those less fortunate.
Ramadan does not fall on the same day annually because the Islamic calendar follows lunar, rather than solar, positions. A 12-month lunar year consists of approximately 354 days. Since it is shorter than the solar year, Ramadan shifts about 11 days earlier each year. The month begins and ends with the sighting of the new moon, but approximate dates are available based on astronomical calculations.
Although Ramadan is observed by nearly two billion Muslims worldwide, non-Muslims often misunderstand the practice. Zoya S., a freshman at Skyline High School, said that people frequently ask whether she is being forced to fast. Fasting is not compulsory for everyone; Muslims who are sick, traveling, elderly, or otherwise exempt are not required to fast and may make up missed days later. Fasting is mandatory only for healthy Muslims who have reached puberty.
Tasneem E., president of Skyline’s Muslim Student Association (MSA), noted another common question: Do Muslims “fast for all 30 days, like not eating anything for all 30 days?” While this is practically impossible for the human body, misunderstanding is common. Muslims fast during daylight hours and eat when the sun is down.
Muslims wake up for an early breakfast called suhoor and break their fast at iftar. “Waking up early for suhoor and actually going down and eating something” can be a hassle, said Faaiza S., vice president of Skyline’s MSA. Shahd N., MSA’s photographer, added another challenge of Ramadan is “having to go about your life, like go[ing] to work and … to school while fasting.”
While fasting is both physically and mentally demanding, much of Ramadan’s challenge is silent. Students and adults go through their days often feeling tired or thirsty, but many keep it private, quietly managing their energy through classes and jobs. The quiet endurance is part of the discipline and reflection that defines the month for many Muslims, culminating in a joyous reward.
After Ramadan, Muslims take part in Eid-al-Fitr, a three-day celebration marking the end of the holy month. This year, Eid is estimated to start on March 20. It is the first time since the start of Ramadan that Muslims can eat during daylight hours. Many celebrate with family, prayer, and charitable giving.
For more information:
Ramadan Information Sheet
